It's The ADHD-Friendly Show | Personal Growth, Well-being and Productivity for Distractible Minds Why ADHDers Can't Get Started (Even When We REALLY Want To)
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Apr 18, 2025 Ever wonder why starting tasks feels impossible, even when you're motivated? Dive into the challenges of task avoidance faced by those with ADHD. Discover the power of emotional connections and why big projects can freeze your brain. Learn the 'head, heart, hands' check-in method to uncover roadblocks and how micro-tasks can generate that essential dopamine kickstart. Plus, uncover the magic of body doubling to boost productivity. Remember, it's not laziness; it’s about working with your brain's unique wiring!
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Karen's Declutter Struggle
- Karen McGill shares her struggle with starting a massive house declutter despite really wanting to do it and being emotionally connected to the outcome.
- She often ends up distracted and overwhelmed before making any progress, illustrating a common ADHD challenge.
Why ADHD Brains Freeze on Tasks
- ADHD task avoidance happens despite wanting to do important things due to mental resistance, executive function struggles, and overwhelming task size.
- ADHD brains often cannot get enough dopamine to initiate tasks until last-minute urgency spikes energy at a high cost.
Emotions and Physical State Matter
- Emotional blocks like perfectionism, fear of failure, and fear of judgment can shut down the ADHD nervous system and prevent starting tasks.
- Physical state factors—sleep, nutrition, movement, and fresh air—are crucial for adequate dopamine levels to enable task initiation.